January of 2025 came in on a very cold note! Some of the lowest and most bitter conditions ever recorded were inflicted upon us. Snow in the very deep south, including Florida and the Gulf Coast, sub-zero readings for the Mid-West and New England areas. Even the inauguration of the incoming President was moved indoors due to bitterly cold conditions! And through all of this, we have reports of hyacinths peeking through the soil in some parts of the East Coast.
Personally, I find a visit to my local Conservatory the best remedy for these winter doldrums. A walk through the greenhouse of your favorite nursery center can do wonders for your spirits. A potted primrose, a pink cyclamen, and a blooming African Violet can be so cheerful! Treat
yourself to a small bouquet of cut flowers from your local supermarket, warehouse store, or florist. A walk with your fingers through Seed Catalogues and Garden Guides will make us think of brighter days, warmer temperatures, and glorious garden adventures ahead.
2025 has rolled upon us, and a new future for Farm & Garden is in the works.
In October of 2024, the members voted to have one organization, combining the National level and the Michigan Division of WNF&GA. While it is easy to vote and look forward to new times ahead, the real work of joining these two entities has just begun. Our Transition Committee is in place under the Chairmanship of Kathy Beveridge of the Bucks County, PA Branch. Our deepest gratitude to Kathy for guiding us through this arduous process. The Committee knows the many concerns and questions every Branch/Club and member may have during this difficult and confusing time.
Our work will continue through September, perhaps October of this year. Until then, please be assured everything will be business as usual. Each Division, Branch,/Club will continue with its previous schedule of meetings, dues collections, and special events. Awards and scholarships will be given, donations and contributions to funds will be very gratefully accepted, and notices of meetings will be sent as needed. Reports of the findings of the Committee will be sent as the details are completed. We request patience, from all, as we begin our journey to the future. All final results of the Transition Committee will be voted upon for approval of the general membership at a National meeting in the future.
If you have questions or concerns, please contact me, or anyone on the Executive Committee. We will try our best to find answers, but, at this time, there is little information to be had over and above that contained in this message. Much like waiting for that new baby to arrive, anticipation, excitement, and patience are needed but seem to be mutually exclusive.
With great expectations for new plantings and new beginnings,
Mary Bertolini
National President, WNF&GA